Inside this issue:• Skills 2014 Report

Sept

embe

r 20

11

2 _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ September 2011

©2011 Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce

Table of ContentsArticle ..................................................................Page

Featured Member of the Month ..................................4Impact CR ...................................................................5All aBoard ...................................................................5LFS Golf Outing .........................................................613th Annual Golf Outing Recap .................................7Calendar of Events ......................................................8Marketing Roundtable ................................................9Skills 2014 Report .............................................. 10-11Chamber Academy ....................................................12Attend a Grassroots Meeting ....................................13Linn Area BizPac ......................................................13New Members ...........................................................14Ambassador of the Quarter .......................................14Priority One ...............................................................15EDC ...........................................................................16Business Success Initiative .......................................17August PM Exchange Recap ....................................18PM Exchange ............................................................18International Business Symposium ...........................19

September 2011Volume 81 No 1 (uSPS558-200)

Chamber Report (ISSN 108-50775) is published monthly by the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, 424 First Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401.

Subscription price of $35 per year is included in an annual chamber membership.

Periodicals postage paid at Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Postmaster: Send changes to:Chamber Report Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce424 First Ave. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52401-1196

Chair: Chuck PetersInterim President: Dee BairdEditor: Kari Stillman

Contact the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce at 319-398-5317 for reprint permission.

2011-2012 Board of Directors

OfficersNancy Kasparek, U.S. Bank NA, ChairRob Frederick, Transamerica Companies, Chair-ElectChuck Peters, SourceMedia Group, Immediate Past ChairBill Vincent, Clifton Gunderson LLP, Treasurer

Board of DirectorsJill Ackerman, Marion Chamber of Commerce,

Honorary DirectorDawn Ainger, Genova Technologies, Inc., DirectorTom Anderson, Merrill Lynch, DirectorDee Baird, CR Area Chamber of Commerce/Priority One,

President P1Todd Barker, Todd Barker Iowa Realty Commercial, DirectorDavid Benson, CR Community School District, DirectorBarry Boyer, Chair, Priority One, Honorary DirectorScott Byers, NAI Iowa Realty Commercial, DirectorLijun Chadima, Thorland Company, DirectorRon Corbett, Mayor, City of Cedar Rapids, Honorary DirectorJeff Elgin, J & T Elgin LLC, DirectorJim Ernst, Four Oaks, DirectorGary Ficken, Bimm Ridder Sportswear, DirectorRon Fielder, Grant Wood Area Education Agency , DirectorKristie Fisher, Kirkwood Community College, DirectorScott Gasway, J.P. Gasway Company Inc., DirectorVern Gebhart, Alliant Energy, DirectorBernard Gill, Ascott Transportation Service, DirectorShannon Hanson, ImpactCR, Honorary DirectorBrad Hart, Bradley & Riley PC, DirectorTom Hobson, Rockwell Collins, Inc., DirectorTim Kintner, Bankers Trust Company, DirectorChristine Landa, Junior Achievement of Eastern IA, DirectorRobb Loftsgard, Wells Fargo Bank , DirectorStephanie Neighbor, Chair, Marion Chamber,

Honorary DirectorCurt Nelson, Entrepreneurial Development Center,

Honorary DirectorDoug Neumann, Cedar Rapids Downtown District,

Honorary DirectorRon Olson, Paulson Electric Company, DirectorJeff Pomeranz, City Manager, City of Cedar Rapids,

Honorary DirectorJohn Sheehan, St. Luke’s Hospital, DirectorDavid Sorg, Leadership for Five Seasons, Honorary DirectorTim Spain, United Fire Group, DirectorMichael Sundall, Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa, PC, DirectorBill Vernon, Simmons Perrine Moyer Bergman PLC, DirectorBrandt Worley, Worley Warehousing, Inc., Director

From the Chairman’s Desk:

As The Chamber comes to the close of the 2010-2011 fiscal year, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the members and volunteers for their support, dedication and commitment that resulted in another successful year for The Chamber.

This past year brought many changes and exciting new opportunities. I would like to thank out-going Chair Chuck Peters, whose outstanding leadership was critical in our transition between CEO’s. Chuck’s commit-

ment to moving this region forward to compete in a global economy will be the building block of our foundation going forward.

The Chamber’s strategic plan, the Prosperity Agenda, was launched this past year and I look forward to the execution of this ambitious and visionary plan. The Prosperity Agenda is grounded in the recognition that The Chamber has a distinctive role to play in the economic vitality of the region and requires an innovative approach to organizational structure, partnerships, and programming.

In the spirit of innovation and moving this region forward, conversations between community organizations committed to creating a strong regional economic engine continue to unfold. As a result of those conversations, we are excited to announce the first ever joint annual meeting for The Chamber, Priority One, and The Downtown District. This inaugural event, Stronger Together, will be held November 1st at Hawkeye Downs Expo Center from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Mark your calendars and plan to attend this innovative and inspirational program!

Lastly, our Chamber has long been recognized for its member’s dedication and commitment through recruitment and retention. As a member who’s received the benefits of our Chamber membership for more than 40 years, I hope you make the decision to renew your investment with the promise that we will execute to bold and game-changing initiatives. The vision of making us a regional, economic powerhouse is within reach with your continued support.

I am excited to serve as your 2012 Board Chair and I thank you in advance for your participation in our future success!

Sincerely, Nancy Kasparek Chair, Board of Directors

September 2011 _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 3

4 _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ September 2011

Ten years ago, Cedar Rapids Bank

was a small dream written on

inside a desk. Today, we’re 4 founders

employees, 2 locations, $573 MM

8 board of directors, 120 local organ

we donate our time to nearly

Ten years ago, Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust

was a small dream written on a notepad

inside my desk. Today, we’re 4 founders, 84

employees, 2 locations, $573 MM in assets,

9 board of directors, 120 local organizations

we donate our time to, nearly 5,000 annual

volunteer hours, 23 boards we serve on, 3

drive-in movies a summer, 1 Best Bank in

the Corridor award, and 1 continued vision

to be the most relationship-focused bank in

the greater Cedar Rapids area.

thank you for your support over the last 10 years!

Larry J. HellingPresident & CEO

www.crbt.com | MEMBER FDIC

September 2011 _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 5

New Board Members ImpactCR welcomes the following advisory board members for fiscal year 2012 as well as the 2012 chair, Mitch Bloomquist

Monday, October 175:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Mount Mercy University

ImpactCR, an organization within the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, has announced the return of “All aBoard: Leadership through Committees, Boards & Commissions” scheduled for Monday October 17th at Mount Mercy University.

All aBoard: Leadership through Committees, Boards & Commissions, is dedicated to educating individuals with a desire to serve the community through leadership. All aBoard is a high-value, low-cost opportunity to advance the leadership skills of the next generation of community leaders in the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City Corridor. From basic board functions to the enhancement of current roles served, this workshop offers direction from the Corridor’s leading service and civic professionals.

Cost to Attend:$20, ImpactCR members and full-time students with a student I.D. receive a $10 discount. Hors d’œuvres and beverages included

Presented by:

Mitch Bloomquist, ImpactCR Chair

Sauter Baty Associates

Christoph Trappe SourceMedia Group

Nicole Agee KCRG-TV9

Catie Houck Guaranty Bank & Trust Co.

Heather Elwood Ulta

Photonot

available

6 _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ September 2011

221 Third Avenue SE319-896-7777

400 Blairs Ferry Road NE319-221-1230

www.bankerstrust.com

Chuck HammondPresident /CEO,Raining Rose, Inc.BANKERS TRUSTcommercial banker:Dave Parmley

“They’re just good, decent people trying to fill

a niche. They treat people the way they’d like

to be treated. The big banks have absolutely

bailed out. Bankers Trust is local and they act

like it. You can get decisions made.”Member FDIC

In any other situation this could be considered embarrassing.

Leadership for Five Seasons11th Annual Alumni Golf OutingFriday, September 9, 2011Airport National Public Golf Complex

11:00 a.m. Lunch and Check-in12:00 p.m. Shotgun Start

Details available online at www.cedarrapids.org/eventsPhone 800.728.7805 HRGreen.com

Cedar Rapids | Des Moines | Sioux City

HR Green builds business

accountability into every

task we perform for our

clients. We work this way with

every client, whether in the

public or private sector, and

at every step of their journey:

design, construction,

ownership and operation.

September 2011 _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 7

Discover a New Way.

Employee Benefits Risk Management Financial Strategies Individual Solutions

www.truenorthcompanies.com

Premier Sponsor:

Dinner Sponsor: Business Exchange CenterCart Sponsor: Septagon ConstructionHole-in-one Sponsor: CarePro Health ServicesBeer Sponsor: Fleck SalesHole Sponsors:Alliant EnergyBraun IntertecClifton GundersonDPI Quality Custom FinishesFoth InfrastructureImOn CommunicationsIowa Association of Business & IndustryKing’s Material

Knutson ConstructionLearningRxCedar Rapids MarriottMount Mercy UniversityNyemaster GoodePresentationsRiverside Casino & Golf ResortTallgrass Business Resources

Flags provided by: Spackler MarketingPhotography provided by: DKP – Dan Kempf PhotographyGolf Balls Donated by: Riverside Casino & Golf Resort

The Chamber hosted another sold out golf outing on Monday, August 22nd at Elmcrest Country Club. The picture perfect day was enjoyed by all that participated. The Chamber would like to thank all of its gracious sponsors that allow the event to be such a success.

Congratulations to JD Schlotterback, Dave Thinnes, Terry Knake and Matt Grundy for winning the 2011 Golf Outing with a score of 15 under par.

8 _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ September 2011

Events Calendar

September October ❖ Friday, September 9

Leadership for Five Seasons – Alumni Golf Outing11:00 a.m. Lunch, Shotgun gun start at Noon

Airport National Public Golf Course & Range 3001 Wright Bros Blvd E, Cedar Rapids

$50 Dues paying alumni $75 Non-dues paying alumni

❖ Tuesday, September 13

Chamber Academy: Determining Your Economic Value8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Chamber Boardroom

Presented by Steve Hammes of Integrus Consulting, LLC.

$10 members/$25 Future members; tax included, light breakfast provided

❖ Wednesday, September 14

International Business SymposiumNoon – 5:00 p.m.

The Kirkwood Center 7725 Kirkwood Blvd, Cedar Rapids

Details on page 19

Registration fee: $50

Sponsored by

❖ Thursday, September 15

PM Exchange – Tektivity, Inc.5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Tektivity, Inc. 9440 Atlantic Dr SW, Cedar Rapids

Member Event

Complimentary

Attend a Grassroots Meeting and Shape a Pro Business Agenda for 2012Be part of the grassroots network that shapes the pro-business agenda of the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce agenda for 2012.

To keep conversations on task, we ask that the company you represent works with, or is impacted by, the topic session(s) you attend.

The following meetings remain:Education: Thurs., September 1, 2011 Technology Companies: Fri., September 2, 2011 Builders, Real Estate and Developers: Thurs., September 8, 2011 Law, Tax & Finance: Fri., September 9, 2011

All meetings will be held in the Chamber’s Boardroom at Noon. RSVP is required (smentzer@cedarrapids.org). Free to attend, refreshments will be provided and attendees are welcome to bring their own lunch.

❖ Thursday, September 22

Unlocking Your Chamber Membership12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Chamber Boardroom

Designed to give you the keys to getting started, Unlocking Your Chamber Membership is an orientation to review our current events, programs and initiatives.

Complimentary

❖ Thursday, September 29

Marketing Roundtable Kick-Off LuncheonNoon – 1:30 p.m.

Chamber Boardroom

Mark Mathis, partner, director of cool with ME&V presents the “10 mistakes businesses make with PR.” Participate in the year-long roundtable and learn from your peers.

Registration fee: $90

Sponsorship opportunities are available for most Chamber events. Contact The Chamber

at chamber@cedarrapids.org

❖ Wednesday, October 5

ImpactCR – Siren Wednesday5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Location: TBD

Siren Wednesday provides a casual atmosphere for ImpactCR members and friends to network and meet new people. Details available at www.impactcr.org.

Complimentary

❖ Monday, October 17

ImpactCR – All aBoard5:30 – 8:00 p.m.

Mount Mercy University

All aBoard is a high-value, low-cost opportunity to advance the leadership skills of the next generation of community leaders in the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City Corridor. Details available at www.impactcr.org

Complimentary

❖ Thursday, October 20

PM Exchange – CarePro Health Services5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

CarePro Health Services 1014 5th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids

Member Event

Complimentary

Community Calendar

As a Chamber member, businesses can login at www.cedarrapids.org

and submit their own event. Visit www.cedarrapids.org/events

to view the numerous events being held by Chamber members

throughout the community.

ImpactCR EventsImpactCR hosts a number of committee meetings each month. To learn more about the organization’s various committees or find out when the next committee meeting is visit impactcr.org for details.

For the latest listing of events or to register and pay on-line please visit

www.cedarrapids.org

September 2011 _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 9

Suspend TV talent upside down from Panchero’s ceiling at 2:15 AM?

Been there.

Done that.

mvpvideoproduction.com | 319.364.8900

SIGN UP TODAY!Join the 2011 – 2012 Marketing Roundtable Session

From using various PR tactics, measuring ROI to leveraging social media to grow your business, participating in the marketing roundtable series is a cost-effective way to incorporate new and relevant marketing tactics to your workplace.

KICK OFF LUNCHEON

When: Noon – 1:30p.m., Thursday, September 29Where: Chamber Boardroom Guest Speaker: Mark Mathis, Partner, Director of Cool with ME&V Advertising & ConsultingTopic: “10 Mistakes Business Make with PR”

PROGRAM FACTSThe Marketing Roundtable is an arranged group of

noncompeting sales and/or marketing professionals who meet once a month to discuss marketing issues. You will be matched with peers from various industries who share

a common goal – ensuring the success of their organiza-tions. Marketing Roundtables are open exclusively to Chamber members who are responsible for the marketing or communications of their organization.

Network: Approximately ten to twelve per breakout group.Convenient: Select your preferred monthly meeting day and time.Cost Effective: The annual participation fee is $90.

REGISTER TODAYRegister online at www.cedarrapids.org/events

or contact Julie Stow at 319-730-1409 or jstow@cedarrapids.org

10 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ September 2011

OVERVIEWIn June, the Skills 2014 report was released by

Kirkwood Community College. The report, produced cooperatively by Kirkwood Community College, Priority One, ICAD Group and local development organizations, focuses on the projected workforce demand in the seven-county region Kirkwood serves, through 2014.

Priority One and ICAD Group are committed to evolving workforce development programming based on the recommendations in the report.

“Workforce development is an ongoing process and the ‘Skills 2014’ report helps reinforce the significance of what we’ve been doing,” said Joe Raso, President of ICAD Group. “Certainly, there are new approaches to consider, but past programs such as Iowa’s National Career Readiness Certificate and alumni engagement were derived from previous reports and both will continue to address workforce needs in this region.”

The Cedar Rapids/Iowa City region continues to experience growth in biotechnology, renewable energy, information technology and innovation based sectors. Employers are projecting more than 11,000 new and replacement workers will be needed in the coming years and many of these positions require specific educational backgrounds and skill sets.

Responding to rapid workplace change in relationship to the number of educated and skilled workers to fill current and future workforce needs is imperative. The quality, capability and availability of workforce are critical factors for the region’s economic advancement in an even more competitive global economy.

Regional employers, educational institutions, economic development organizations, and human and social service organizations must work together to strengthen regional workforce development efforts.

TAKING ACTIONICAD Group and Priority One work with employers

and educators to address skill gaps, develop training programs and recruit workforce. Work-based learning experiences, specifically internship programs and job shadowing, are a few ways to connect potential workforce to area job opportunities as well as quality of life.

“One of the recommendations presented in the Skills 2014 report is that we need to continue to encourage employer commitment to internships and job shadowing,” said Dee Baird. “We believe continued investment in education and workforce systems that support work-based learning experiences will help our community attract and retain the next generation worker, thus building a pipeline of qualified workers for our region.”

MyTernNow.com Highlights Career Exploration & Internship Opportunities

To help attract and retain young, qualified candidates in the Cedar Rapids/Iowa City Corridor and address the “worker shortage” facing our state, Priority One launched a new workforce website in September focusing on internships and career-pathing for 15 to 25 year-olds. The site, MyTernNow.com, features career and occupational information across all industry sectors, available internships for college students, direct linkages between occupations and employers in the region that have those career oppor-tunities, a searchable employer directory, an available housing database, and information on the quality of life in the Corridor. The site also contains video highlighting dining, nightlife, recreation, and cultural opportunities in the community, as well as interviews with young professionals in the Corridor discussing their current occupation and career path.

Leadership for Five Seasons Develops College ProgramThe Leadership for Five Seasons program

launched a new initiative this summer for interns and co-ops. The College Program allows companies to engage their summer interns/co-ops on a broader community level and engage them outside of the organization. The summer program provides an overview of four aspects of personal/community leadership: Personal Leadership; Business and Economy in the Region; Community Effectiveness (judicial, non-profit, health/human services, and government); and Quality of Life (recreation, culture and education).

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTThe Skills 2014 report also noted that many

businesses are concerned about the missing basic, soft and occupational skills among applicants. Although the highest area of concern for employers is the occupational skills that apply directly to the job, the next highest area of concern is regarding the soft or interpersonal skills.

Skills 2014

September 2011 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ 11

Interns enjoy the opportunity to take a plant tour in Cedar Rapids to learn more about opportunities within the area.

MyTernNow.com is promoted to high school and college students as a resource they can use to explore employers and career paths within the region as well as learn about the great amenities available for a young adult.

Recommendations from Skills 2014

› Continue to promote, reinforce and gain endorsement from regional employers to require or recommend the Iowa National Career Readiness Certificate as well as workforce credentialing systems in general.

› Engage employers in a commitment to internships and job shadowing. Continue to invest and incentivize education and workforce systems that support employer linkages to high quality work-based learning experiences.

› Develop a regional workforce development plan and approach that supports workforce development programs and training that result in skill attainment and credentials aligned with the current and future talent and skill needs of the region’s employers.

› Leverage regional assets to attract, retain and grow more businesses and invest in human capital development. Assure that investments and policy incentives support both a regulatory and workforce climate conducive to business growth.

To read the Skills 2014 report in its entirety visit www.priority1.com and click on Workforce Here.

Respondents stated that communication, dependability, conflict res-olution, customer service and problem solving ability are often missing from job applicants.

Employers can encourage employees to attend or participate in the numerous events hosted by The Chamber throughout the year. “The ability to network and meet new people is a fantastic way to build ones interpersonal skills,” states Julie Stow, VP of Special Events & Member Services at The Chamber. “Beyond providing informative events to our members, employees are provided the opportunity to build many of the soft skills needed to be successful within their own workplace.”

Professional Development Opportunities:›› CEO Roundtable›› Marketing Roundtable›› Sales Roundtable›› Chamber Academy Series›› PM Exchanges›› Leadership for Five Seasons Program›› Breakfast of Champions

12 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ September 2011

“Measuring the Value of Your Business”Tuesday, September 13th

8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.Chamber Boardroom

$10 members/$25 future members(cost includes sales tax, light breakfast provided)

“Our business was profitable last year but did it increase in value?” Attend this session and learn how EVA measures true economic profit

after subtracting the cost of all capital employed.

Steve Hammes and Jim Schmitt, Managing Directors of INTEGRUS Consulting LLC, will discuss creating and measuring business value and the process of exit planning. The principals, Steve Hammes, and Jim Schmitt, have collectively 70 plus years of experience working with the leaders of closely held and family owned businesses. They understand the dynamics of these businesses and the issues management and owners deal with.

2274-A2.indd 1 1/12/11 11:00 AM

Jim SchmittSteve Hammes

September 2011 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ 13

You wouldn’t expect your bank to o� er a free checking account that pays 4.00% APY*

and waives all of your ATM fees....but we do.

* Annual Percentage Yield. Rate may change after the account is opened. APY accurate as of November 1, 2010 and is not an introductory rate. Opening deposit requirement of $100. APY is for balances up to $25,000. Balances over $25,000 will earn interest at 0.10% APY. To earn stated APY and ATM fee refunds of $20 per month, the following items are required: minimum of 15 Visa Check Card transactions per statement cycle, enroll in onilne banking, receive eStatements and set up one direct deposit or debit per month. MEMBER FDIC

...but we do.

Grassroots Meetings Continue

The Chamber continues to host its series of grassroots meetings that will shape the pro-business agenda of the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce in 2012. To keep conversations on task, we ask that the company you represent works with, or is impacted by, the topic session(s) you attend.

Technology Companies: Friday, September 2, 2011

Builders, Real Estate and Developers: Thursday, September 8, 2011

Law, Tax & Finance: Friday, September 9, 2011

All meetings will be held in the Chamber’s Boardroom at Noon. Free to attend, refreshments will be provided and attendees are welcome to bring their own lunch. RSVP is required please contact smentzer@cedarrapids.org to register.

Have you ever thought of running for public office

but not sure where to start? We are here to help.

On Tuesday, October 25 the Linn Area BizPAC will sponsor a Candidate School for those interested in running for elected office. This event is free, open to the public and provides an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about elected office at all levels.

Speakers include representatives from the Linn County Auditor’s Office to explain resources available to candidates as well as processes to follow, Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure will review what is needed for paperwork, media representatives, fundraising experts and those that can help you with mobilizing volunteers.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about what it takes to run for elected office.

Registration is free and lunch is provided.

When: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Tuesday, October 25, 2011 Where: Chamber Board Room Register: Online at www.cedarapids.org/events or contact Sara Mentzer at smentzer@cedarrapids.org

Linn Area

14 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ September 2011

Events

Featured

At Work

New

Dental Health Parnters4332 Center Point Road NortheastCedar Rapids, IA 52402John Todtz, Business ManagerPhone: 319-365-4997Web: www.dentalhealthparnters.com Email: john@dentalhealthparnters.com

At Dental Health Partners, we are dedicated to providing you with high quality, gentle care in a relaxed environment. Our team provides you with knowledge and professional dental services using modern techniques and procedures to keep your smile bright!

Kosama Comlete Body Transformation7085 C Ave NECedar Rapids, IA 52402Shelley Schroeder, PresidentPhone: 319-423-1143Web: http://cedarrapids.kosama.com Email: cedarrapids@kosama.com

Kosama Complete Body Transformation is an 8-week program designed to increase lean muscle mass and transform the body from the core out. Kosama not only focuses on lean muscle growth but overall conditioning including mind, balance, flexibility, and overall health.

Rehab Management Services222 3rd Street SE, Suite 610Cedar Rapids, IA52401Jim Hall, OwnerPhone: 319-892-0142Fax: 319-365-9076Web: www.rehabmgmt.com Email: jhall@rehabmgmt.com

Rehab Management Services (RMS) provides medical billing for rehabilitative services (physical, occupational, and speech therapy) for both therapists in private practice and rehabilitation agencies. Established in 1997, RMS continues to understand the importance of cash flow, maximum reimbursement, and outstanding customer service.

SCORE GOALSON THE FIELDAchieve Goals in Life.

CEDAR RAPIDS METRO YMCAwww.crmetroymca.org

When kids play sports they get more than just exercise. They have higher self esteem and a healthier body image. Sign your kid up for Y sports NOW online or in a branch.

chamber ad 1109.indd 1 6/17/2011 2:37:27 PM

Events

Featured

At Work

New

Ambassador of the Quarter

Rose Slaymaker with Nemec Marketing Group, Inc./Send Out Cards was awarded Ambassador of the Quarter by the 2010/2011 Ambassador Chair, Chris Oberbroeckling. The Chamber appreciates Rose for her dedication and commitment to the Ambassador program.

September 2011 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ 15

Every year, hundreds of student interns and newly hired graduates come to the Cedar Rapids area to explore world-class career opportunities in our community. What these young professionals experience during their short stay often determines whether or not they will decide to make the Corridor their permanent home.

To ensure that interns and new hires are experiencing all the Corridor has to offer, Priority One offers networking activities and events through MyLifeNow, a yearlong program designed to engage students and recent grads and get them connected in the Corridor.

This past summer, over 100 students representing 19 different colleges and universities participated in MyLifeNow. Summer activities included Thursday night bowling at Westdale Bowling Center, canoeing on the Maquoketa River, and a trip to Lost Island Water Park.

“MyLifeNow is an extremely valuable experience, even for someone familiar with Cedar Rapids,” said Kory Heineman, student at Coe College and intern at Rockwell Collins. “It gave me a chance to network with interns from other companies and meet people with backgrounds completely different from my own. It also broadened my horizon beyond Coe’s campus and introduced me to events and activities in the Corridor I never knew existed.”

Originally designed as a summer series, both students and employers expressed interest in yearlong programming, as many companies offer internships and co-ops during the fall and spring semesters. This fall, MyLifeNow will offer several new networking opportunities, including Monday Night Football viewing parties.

MyLifeNow is free to both students and employers, and open to all interns and new hires working in the Corridor. For more information, visit MyTernNow.com/Life.

Not just a great local printer!

We also offer: • In-house Design• High Speed Digital Print• Variable Data Printing• In-house Mailing Services

319-378-4451

Call your friends and make reservations now for an event you won’t forget!

Teprve pivo udělá žízeň krásnouOnly with beer does thirst become beautiful

An International Beer Tasting to Benefit the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

friday evening september 23, 2011RSVP Now, call 319-362-8500, or

Email: kboysen@ncsml.org

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •2011

™

Web Portal

employers

,

stlukescr.org

St. Luke’s Work Well Solutions

The iSYSTOC employer web portal provides a web interface to access your company’s information such as drug test results, physicals or immuniza-tions at your convenience. It is safe, secure and available when you need the information.

Call 319/369-8154 to learn more!

for

Technology you should expect from your occupational medicine specialist

16 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ September 2011

ENTREPRENEURS’ CORNERSales Funnel or Bucket?

Curt Nelson, President & CEO, Entrepreneurial Development Center (EDC)

The average sales person deals with prospect leads as they come, working all that they can, leveraging their product or service to fit the need and get the order. Absent available leads, they prospect in much the same manner, looking for anyone willing to listen. Asked about their sales funnel, they explain all of the

prospects they are working in an aggregate manner, in reality describing a sales “bucket.”

Sales professionals understand the difference between a sales funnel and a bucket of poorly-qualified prospects. They know they can’t handle “all that come.” They

know how many qualified prospects they can handle effectively and they manage to that number.

They know that not every lead is a qualified prospect. They establish key qualification criteria that identify the optimal prospects for their funnel. Intensity of need / urgency, size of the opportunity, stage of process, competition, type of buyer, optimal fit for their product or service, etc.

They fill their funnel with diversification and flow in mind. They have a range of deal opportunity sizes and timeframes designed to build consistency and stability into their revenue and income generation.

They manage the flow of their funnel weekly. They know what they need to add, when and how to move prospects from to stage to stage, and they get orders when planned.Of the scores of sales people that I have interviewed

or encountered in my career, very few of them have understood how to build and manage a quality sales funnel. Sales funnels are tools like any other. The ability to perfect the use of the tool in a way that maximizes performance is the key to great success. All professional golfers use quality golf clubs – but every golfer perfects his own personal swing to maximize the effect of the club on the ball. You can easily locate many variations of a sales funnel tool. It is up to you to perfect the use of that tool, maximize your selling success, and kick the “bucket” goodbye!

www.edcinc.org

Taking care of families.

Cedar Rapids Marion Monticello Cascade Onslow Baldwin OhnwardBank.com

Member FDIC

With the bank since Adam was 14. “The service is great.” He and Traci went there for their first home.

“It was incredibly easy.” Second home? Ohnward. “They were wonderful and watched out for our family.

It all fell into place.” Closing at the bank? 7pm on a Tuesday. “The only time that worked for all of us.”

Where do you want to go?

The Rollinger family – CascadeOhnward services: mortgage, savings, checking, CDs, kids’ CDs

MOVE FORWARD

September 2011 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ 17

Mind your business.You’ve got plenty to keep you busy –

no spare time to fret about basics that

should be hassle free. That’s where CITY

comes in. We offer a wide range of rental

uniforms and mats to meet your unique

needs. It’s the clean and simple way.

Want a customized solution to let you

focus on what really matters? Call us

today and we’ll sweat the small stuff.

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WORKPLACE UNIFORMS & MATS

Cle� �d simple.

Flooded Businesses Featured at Downtown Farmers’ Market

Flood affected businesses in Cedar Rapids had another opportunity to promote their products and services at the Downtown Farmers’ Market on Saturday, August 20. The Chamber’s Business Success Initiative hosted a booth in the non-profit section at the market to increase awareness of businesses hit with the double whammy of the flood and economic recession. It was the second booth BSI hosted this summer.

“This was a good opportunity to raise awareness of our flood affected businesses and remind the community that these places still need our support three years after the flood,” said Bob Harschnek, case management team leader of the Business Success Initiative.

While some business owners have reported their revenues are nearing pre-flood level, they say dollars lost during the recovery process and a struggling economy has

made a large dent in their operations. A change in consumer buying habits has also been a factor for local businesses.

Business featured at BSI’s booth in August were Access2Independence, Basket Bowtique, Criterium-LeTellier Engineers, DPI Quality Custom Finishes, Heartscape Studios, J.P. Gasway Company, Riders Club of America, Schumacher Carpets, and Signature Santiago.

Shannon Debner of DPI Quality Custom Finishes said the experience was a great way to get the business name out in the community in a fun way.

“This was a good chance to network with other vendors as well as people passing through. We received name recognition for sure,” Debner said.

To help support flood affected business, find the Business Success Initiative on Facebook and Twitter at CR Biz Comeback.

18 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ September 2011

August PM Exchange Recap

Fun was had by all as Erb’s Technology Solutions celebrated 50 years in the business. The event was celebrated with a champagne toast, live music and numerous door prizes enjoyed by everyone in attendance. Three teams. One party.

Tailgate

Party at

Chamber PM EventHelp kick off

Tektivitys new home with hors o’ dourves, spirits, conversation,

and more!

Thursday, September 15, 20115:00pm-7:00pm

9440 Atlantic Dr.Cedar Rapids, IA 52240

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September 2011 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ 19

International Business Symposium Wednesday, September 14

Noon – 5:00 p.m.The Kirkwood CenterRegistration Fee: $50

REGISTER TODAY!

The symposium targets businesses that are actively engaged in international business as well as those beginning to explore the opportunity. This event will be informative for any Iowa business interested in staying current on international business practices, wanting to increase their global presence or network with their peers.

The Half-Day Event Includes:Noon – 1:30 p.m. Lunch, keynote speaker Joe Hurd, US

Department of Commerce and presentation of the International Business Award

1:30 – 1:45 p.m. Break 1:45 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. Keynote Speaker: Jalel Aossey

of Midamar Corporation2:45 – 3:00 p.m. Break 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. CEO Panel Discussion4:00 – 5:00 p.m. Cocktail Hour/Networking

Keynote Speakers: Joe Hurd, Senior Directory, Export Promotion and Trade Policy, U.S. Department of Commerce

In October 2009 Joe Hurd was appointed Senior Director, Export Promotion and Trade Policy for the International Trade Administration at the U.S. Department of Commerce. In this capacity Joe provides leadership for the Trade Promotion and Coordinating Committee (TPCC), an inter-agency trade promotion secretariat chaired by the Secretary of Commerce, Gary Locke. The TPCC is the principal implementing agency behind the National Export Initiative recently announced by President Obama. As part of TPCC’s mission to advance a government-wide trade

promotion agenda, Joe works directly with the heads of the State, Treasury, Export-Import Bank, OPIC and U.S. Trade Representative, and over 10 additional government agencies.

Jalel Aossey, Director, Midamar CorporationJalel Aossey is a Director at Midamar Corporation,

located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, a family owned business that has pioneered the Halal food industry in North America since 1974. Over the years with Midamar, Jalel has been quoted in numerous media stories including features in the “Wall Street Journal,” “Los Angeles Times,” and several overseas publications. In 2007, Jalel was asked to speak before US government bodies on the topic of the Halal and Muslim markets. 2011 International Business Award Recipient:

PMX Industries is this year’s recipient of the International Business Award. PMX Industries is the leading supplier of high quality copper and copper alloys in North America and has been in Cedar Rapids for more than 20 years.

Register online at www.cedarrapids.org/events

or contact Julie Stow at jstow@cedarrapids.org for more information.

Fostering Global Success

Special thanks to our sponsors:

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Cornerstone Press

424 First Avenue NECedar Rapids, IA 52401-1196

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